Tonga vs Cook Islands Rugby World Cup match will be held on October 30, 2:30 PM (International Time) and October 30, 8:00 PM (Indian Time).
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Tonga will take on the Cook Islands in the Rugby World Cup at the Riverside Stadium (Middlesbrough) on October 30. On Sunday afternoon BST, action from the Rugby League World Cup will be played in Middlesbrough between group D’s top team, Tonga, and the Cook Islands. Tonga’s place in the quarterfinals is all but certain, but they will aim to build on their inconsistent performances in their first two games and take some momentum into the knockout stages. The Cook Islands knew they faced challenges after defeating South Africa and the USA to snag the 16th and last slot at the world cup. To advance, the Kukis must pull off an upset against Tonga and PNG, two Pacific Rim powerhouses that were also placed in Group D.
Nothing short of an improbable large win against Tonga would keep their chances of competing in the world cup alive after they were soundly defeated by Papua New Guinea last week. The squad must be devastated by their 16-point setback against the Kumuls in Warrington. The Cook Islands were only 80 minutes away from clinching second place in their group and a potential quarterfinal matchup with the hosts England after clinging on for dear life to defeat Wales. They must now regroup because if they can’t find it in themselves to step up from their first two games, they risk ending up on the wrong side of a dismal scoreboard.
Cook Islands star Anthony Gelling announced his retirement from international rugby league and an early departure from England after the team’s defeat by the Kumuls. Gelling contributed lots of experience in the centers and scored a try in each of the Kukis’ two games during this competition. The Cook Islands will miss having him on the pitch and in camp, and it is unclear how head coach Tony Iro can fill the void in the backline.
Tonga: Tupou, Talakai, Penisini, Katoa, Amone, Lolohea, Fonua-Blake, Taukeiaho, Kaufusi, Koloamatangi, Luke, Olakau’atu, Tatola, Fotuaika, Fifita
Cook Islands: Kayal Iro, Paul Ulberg, Anthony Gelling, Esan Marsters, Steven Marsters, Brad Takairangi, Johnathon Ford, Makahesi Makatoa, Aaron Teroi, Tepai Moeroa, Dom Peyroux, Brendan Piakura, Zane Tetevano, Tevin Arona, Reubenn Rennie
Tonga vs Cook Islands Rugby World Cup match will be held on October 30, 2:30 PM (International Time) and October 30, 8:00 PM (Indian Time). Fans can live stream the match on BBC Two, BBC iPlayer, and BBC Sport.
